Andorra Hosts Eighth Petit Santa Claus Race in Revamped Plaça del Poble

Andorra la Vella's Plaça del Poble hosted the eighth edition of the Petit Santa Claus Race for the first time on Saturday, attracting around 150 children up to age 10 in 12 age-grouped runs organised by the Comú's Sports Department.

The event marked a departure from previous years at Estadi Comunal or Parc Central, with races adapted to the square's recent remodelling. Sports technician Laura Baró explained that groups ranged from newborns to 10-year-olds, with distances starting at 30 metres for the youngest and extending to longer loops via the Rosa Ferrer footbridge and back through the square. All participants received a commemorative cup, chocolate, and a gift, blending sport with festive spirit.

The morning flowed into family activities, including the "cagada del tió" tradition where children coaxed treats from the log. In the afternoon, the Efímer theatre company's giant orange dog puppet "Peluix" led its annual slow parade along Avinguda Meritxell, captivating families amid the commercial bustle.

These events complemented the Poblet de Nadal Christmas village, open since 28 November and continuing until 5 January. The market has adapted to the square's renovation with rearranged stalls, a relocated ice rink, and themed zones. Restaurants now cluster near the Neret live music stage, while crafts and sweets are spread elsewhere.

Veteran traders, some participating for over a decade, reported a mostly positive balance despite initial layout uncertainties and heightened competition in sweets and crepes. One vendor with eight years' experience noted better sales than last year, crediting customer loyalty. Others adapted offerings—such as switching from crepes to waffle skewers—to differentiate amid the crowd. Footfall and business now match prior years as peak holiday weeks begin, with two more itinerant shows featuring oversized characters scheduled for the coming Saturdays.